Canada commits $C 1.28bn to Montreal REM

CANADIAN prime minister Mr Justin Trudeau announced on June 15 that the federal government will contribute $C 1.28bn ($US 960m) towards the $C 6.04bn cost of constructing Montreal’s Metropolitan Electric Network (REM).

The federal government’s decision means the project is now fully funded, with CDPQ Infra, a subsidiary of pension fund Caisse de Dépôt et Placement du Québec, contributing $C 2.67bn, and the province of Quebec providing $C 1.24bn. Hydro Quebec is also contributing $C 295m and $C 512m is due in compensation for land value capture.

Trudeau also announced that it will be possible for the province of Quebec and CDPQ Infra to put the project forward to the Canada Infrastructure Bank for independent analysis and consideration for funding. If the bank decides to invest in REM, the allocation from Quebec’s transit budget could be reduced.

“The REM is one of the most ambitious public transportation projects in our history,” says Trudeau. “In addition to making it quicker and easier for millions of Quebec residents to get around, the REM will reduce the number of cars on the roads, help ease traffic and make the air cleaner.”

An interview with CDPQ Infra president and CEO Mr Macky Tall will appear in the July issue of IRJ.